The senseless killings at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newton, CT, go beyond the comprehension of most adults.
Discussing this, and similar tragedies resulting from violence is a difficult task for parents & guardians; below is some guidance extracted from The National Association of School Psychologists.
The complete handout can be opened in a PDF by clicking here
- Limit television viewing of these events.
- Adults also need to be mindful of the content of conversations.
- Children will look to adults for information and guidance on how to react.
- Reassure children that they are safe.
- Emphasize that schools are very safe.
- Explain that all feelings are okay when a tragedy occurs.
- Assist them in expressing these feelings appropriately.
- Let their questions be your guide as to how much to discuss it.
- Watch for clues that they may want to talk
- Some children prefer writing, playing music, or art as an outlet.
- Keep your explanations developmentally appropriate.
- Early elementary school children need brief, simple information.
- Reassure them that schools and homes are safe.
- Remind them of school safety drills.
- Older children will be more vocal in asking questions.
- Discuss efforts of school and community leaders to provide safe schools.
- Teenagers will have strong and varying opinions.
- They will share concrete suggestions about how to make school safer.
- Emphasize the role that students have in following school safety guidelines.
- Review safety procedures at school and at home.
- Help children identify at least one adult at school they trust.
- Observe children’s emotional state.
- Some children may not express their concerns verbally.
- Watch for changes in behavior, appetite, and sleep patterns.
- Remind them that local schools in Oakland, Franklin Lakes and Wyckoff conduct drills to prepare children should violence every break out.
- Maintain a normal routine.
Open the complete handout as a PDF: Talking to Children About Violence
Read reactions from Newton residents on The Newton Patch